Jumpers

Jumpers is different from hunters in that it is all speed and precision.  The jumps are generally a larger height too.  They start out around 3'9" and can go up to 5-6'.  Anything over 5' is considered Grand Prix level.  Grand Prix level is what is done in the Olympic equestrian competitions.   It doesn't matter how pretty you or your horse look,  or how nicely you get over the course.  What matters is who does the course in the fastest time and with the fewest rails knocked down.  Everyone starts out with a certain time allowed to get around the whole jump course.  It is the same time for everyone.  Those who complete the course in the time allowed and with no faults, ( a fault is when a rail is knocked down) move into round 2 which is called a jump-off.  The first rider to go sets the speed for the rest of those in the jump-off.  You must also be careful not to have any faults.   The faster the first rider goes the better chance he has of winning!

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